Alex Iwobi Admits Struggle with Nigeria’s New National Anthem Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

 Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has made a surprising confession—he has yet to learn Nigeria’s new national anthem, which was reinstated nearly a year ago by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Iwobi, who plies his trade with Premier League club Fulham, made this revelation during an appearance on Nigerian YouTuber Chinasa Anukam’s dating show, Is This Seat Taken? When asked if he had taken the time to memorize the anthem, the 28-year-old midfielder responded bluntly:

“No… when it comes on, I literally stand there and close my eyes.”

In May 2024, President Tinubu signed a bill into law reinstating Nigeria, We Hail Thee, the country’s former national anthem, which had been replaced in 1978 by Arise, O Compatriots. The reinstated anthem, written by British expatriate Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians.

Iwobi’s admission may come as a shock to some Nigerian fans, especially given his regular appearances for the national team. However, he is not alone, as many Nigerians are still adjusting to the change.

Currently, the Super Eagles are facing intense pressure as they sit fifth in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers. They are set to face Rwanda on March 21 in Kigali before returning home to play Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on March 25.

With crucial matches ahead, Nigerian fans will be hoping that Iwobi’s focus remains on delivering strong performances on the pitch—even if he still hasn’t mastered the new national anthem.